BOIVIN'S TOP STORIES OF 2010

USA vs. Canada in gold medal hockey game

The energy in Vancouver was unbelievable. The ending was perfect: One of the game's biggest stars, Sidney Crosby, scored in overtime for Team Canada.

Photo: Chris O'Meara/Associated Press

Kurt Warner's graceful exit

Warner retired the way you're supposed to retire: with class. He didn't have second thoughts and went right to work on his charities. He proved he could tackle the broadcast booth and showed he could cha-cha, too.

Photo: Cheryl Evans/The Arizona Republic

Steve Nash

Nash always seems to be at the center of great story lines. His participation with Wayne Gretzky in the Opening Ceremony of the Winter Games left Canadians giddy. And then he goes and leads the Phoenix Suns to the Western Conference finals.

Photo: Michael Chow/The Arizona Republic

Dockett scores a big contract

This one fascinated me because of how far Darnell Dockett has come. Can you imagine being a young boy and walking in on the body of your murdered mother? And then finding the drive needed to become a standout NFL player?

Photo: Emmanuel Lozano/The Arizona Republic

Stoudemire goes to Knicks

This story line was big because the Phoenix Suns ultimately decided forward Amar'e Stoudemire wasn't worth the money he felt he deserved. We'll know soon who was right.

Photo: Frank Franklin II/Associated Press

Szakacsy and San Carlos Reservation

I'm a sucker for stories about athletes who are pulled in unexpected directions. Arizona State quarterback Samson Szakacsy struck up a conversation with someone about the plight of many Native Americans and immediately organized a camp for youth on the San Carlos Apache Indian Reservation.

Photo: Courtesy of Samson Szakacsy

Michael Vick's comeback

People continue to be divided on Vick. His NFL success this season has been remarkable but the horrific crimes he committed against animals will prevent many from ever forgiving.

Photo: Matt Slocum/Associated Press

Matt Leinart released by Cardinals

The cloud of mystery surrounding this divorce continues to fascinate. Did the Arizona Cardinals really think he was that bad of a fit? And do they regret it now?

Photo: Rob Schumacher/The Arizona Republic

Lute Olson in Arizona Sports Hall of Fame

On a national scale, this wasn't big news, but for some of us, this was the first time to see Olson in person after his unsettling departure from the University of Arizona. He was upbeat, fit and about to be married!

Photo: Pat Shannahan/The Arizona Republic

Strong startfor Coyotes

Ownership issues, poor attendance and a small payroll lost out to pride. It's been a gutty effort by this Phoenix Coyotes team.